Women veterans honored at Waterloo ceremony

Posted:
Wednesday, November 11, 2009 5:28 PM EST

By John Wilmer

WATERLOO (KWWL) -- The role women have played in the armed forces has changed dramatically over the years, from serving as nurses during World War II, to now serving in war zones in Iraq and Afghanistan.

World War II veteran, Marcia Courbat served as a medic in the Women Army Corps. She organized the event this morning at Veterans Memorial Hall.

"I've been always working with the men and their Veterans Day programs and they get the men veterans, but nobody asks what they did that was important," said Courbat.

More than a dozen female veterans, from every branch of service took part, even telling those who gathered a little about their service. Pauline Dryden Lyon was touched by tragedy in her home town of waterloo, which gave her just another reason to do her part.

"I think that struck me after the Sullivan brothers died. I had been in school with Albert so I looked around at the other ones and I new I looked better in navy blue than I did in khaki so that's why I joined the navy," said Lyon.

All of their hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed, giving these women a sense of pride only those who have served their country know.

"The way you worked with people and the way they worked with you, it was just wonderful," said Courbat.

"The recruitment poster said release a man for sea duty and I guess that was important to me. I have never been sorry that I took that step and it was the most memorable part of my life except my marriage," said Lyons.

Courbat said she wanted to honor the women who have served, this year because of the number of World War II veterans who are passing away, giving them their due before it's too late.